Excavation Once they have located and defined a fossil, the paleontologists of the ICP evaluate its state of conservation. It is also important to write down the position and the location in which the fossil appears. This information can be valuable for later studies. A paleontological excavation is an irreversible process because later we will not be able to put fossils back into the sediment as they were.Writing down these data correctly helps to virtually and accurately reconstruct the original distribution of fossils in the deposit in the future. For taking measurements, the paleontologists use grids, tape measures, computers and a tool known as 'station' that allows them to establish the coordinates of a point and to know its location. On the other hand, shovels, pneumatic hammers, escarpments and bistouries are also used for excavation. Initial preparation of fossils In this way, when the time comes to transport it to the warehouses of the Institut, the material will not be damaged. The polyurethane, in addition, is a suitable material because it is very light and it does not add weight to the fossil, as is the case with plaster. Transport
The circumstances of the deposits vary and the transport of fossils to the Institut depends on where they have been found. If they have appeared in an isolated location, the transport is difficult. 'Mummies' of moderate dimensions are transported in vans or vehicles. In exceptional cases, trucks and helicopters have also been used. Arrival at the warehouse
The fossils arrive labeled from the excavations in such a way that the conservators of the ICP know at any moment what fossil is contained in the 'mummy'. The conservators are in charge of storing each fossil in an optimal way until it is time to take them to the preparation laboratory. |
© 2011 - Institut Català de Paleontologia Miquel Crusafont